Eligibility for the High Potential Individual (HPI) Visa

• In order to qualify for the esteemed High Potential Individual (HPI) visa, there are several key eligibility criteria to meet. Firstly, you must hold a qualification awarded by an eligible university. These eligible universities are selected based on international university rankings, ensuring that applicants have received their education from institutions of high repute. To determine whether your university is on the list of eligible institutions for the specific time frame in which you were awarded your qualification, refer to the links from following date ranges which provides list of such universities for each year.

• From 1 November 2023 to 31 October 2024
• From 1 November 2022 to 31 October 2023
• From 1 November 2021 to 31 October 2022
• From 1 November 2020 to 31 October 2021
• From 1 November 2019 to 31 October 2020
• From 1 November 2018 to 31 October 2019

• It’s important to note that universities within the UK are not considered eligible for this visa category. If you are currently in the UK on a student visa, you may explore the option of applying for a Graduate visa instead.

Qualification Requirements

• To be eligible for the HPI visa, your qualification must be at a level equivalent to a UK bachelor’s degree, postgraduate degree, or PhD/doctorate. It’s essential to undergo a qualification validation process through Ecctis (formerly UK NARIC) to confirm that your qualification meets these criteria. Ecctis will assess the level of your qualification, but please bear in mind that they do not determine the eligibility of your university.

• Additionally, the HPI visa requires that you have been awarded your qualification within the last five years, demonstrating that you possess recent academic expertise.

Other Eligibility Criteria

• In addition to the aforementioned requirements, there are several other essential criteria for HPI visa applicants
  • Proficiency in English You must prove your proficiency in the English language.
  • Sufficient Personal Savings: Unless you have been in the UK with a valid visa for at least 12 months, you must demonstrate that you have adequate personal savings to support yourself while residing in the UK.
  • No Job Offer Required: Unlike some other visa categories, you do not need to have a job offer to apply for the HPI visa.

• It’s important to understand that you are only allowed to apply for the HPI visa once, and there are certain circumstances under which you are not eligible to apply. For instance, if you have already been granted a Graduate visa or if you have previously entered the UK as a Doctorate Extension Scheme student, you cannot apply for the HPI visa.

Language Requirements for the High Potential Individual (HPI) Visa

• When applying for the High Potential Individual (HPI) visa, demonstrating proficiency in the English language is typically a requirement, unless you have previously met this requirement in a successful visa application. To meet the language criteria, you must prove your ability to read, write, speak, and understand English at a minimum of level B1 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) scale.

Methods of Proving English Proficiency

• There are various ways to prove your knowledge of the English language
  • Secure English Language Test (SELT): One option is to pass a Secure English Language Test (SELT) from an approved provider. This test is specifically designed to assess your English language skills and ensure they meet the necessary standards.
  • Academic Qualifications from UK Schools: If you have obtained a GCSE, A level, Scottish National Qualification level 4 or 5, Scottish Higher, or Advanced Higher in English through your studies at a UK school that you began attending before the age of 18, this can serve as proof of your language proficiency.
  • Degree-Level Academic Qualification in English: Alternatively, if you possess an academic qualification at the degree level that was taught in English, you can use this as evidence of your English proficiency. If you completed your degree program abroad, you would need to seek confirmation from Ecctis (formerly UK NARIC) to establish the equivalence of your qualification to a UK bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD degree.

Exemptions from English Proficiency Requirement

• There are certain exceptions to the English language proficiency requirement. If you are a national of one of the following countries or territories, you do not need to prove your English language skills

• Antigua and Barbuda, Australia, the Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, the British overseas territories, Canada, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, Malta, New Zealand, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, USA.

• For individuals from these nations or regions, the visa application process does not require additional English language testing or qualification confirmation, simplifying the application process for those eligible.

 To obtain professional, most up-to-date, and accurate advice on your visa application you can contact our experienced, and accredited team of immigration consultants on 020 3911 1115 or send us your query using this form or email us on ukvisa@agclservices.com or request a call back by providing your contact details here and we will get back to you asap.

Required Documents for the High Potential Individual (HPI) Visa Application

• In preparation for your application for the High Potential Individual (HPI) visa, it is essential to ensure that you have all the necessary documents and paperwork in order.

Key Documents for HPI Visa Application

• When applying for the HPI visa, you will need to furnish the following documents
  • You must provide a valid passport or another form of travel document that not only establishes your identity but also indicates your nationality.
  • Demonstrating your proficiency in the English language is vital. You will be required to provide evidence of your ability to read, write, speak, and comprehend English at a minimum level of B1 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) scale.
  • You will receive a statement from Ecctis after they have completed the validation of your qualification. This statement holds crucial information regarding your qualification and its English language proficiency confirmation. The specific type of statement you receive depends on whether you needed Ecctis to verify that your qualification was taught in English. If such verification was required, the statement is known as an ‘Academic Qualification Level Statement and English Language Proficiency Statement.’ Otherwise, it is referred to as an ‘Academic Qualification Level Statement.’

Additional Documents Based on Circumstances

• Depending on your individual circumstances, you may be asked to provide supplementary documentation
  • If you are transitioning to the HPI visa from another visa category, you may need to present your biometric residence permit (BRP) or online proof of your current immigration status in the UK.
  • If you are applying with your partner or children, submit proof of your relationship with them.
  • Individuals from countries listed as requiring tuberculosis (TB) testing as part of the visa application process will need to include their TB test results.
  • In the event that your documents are not in English or Welsh, you must provide certified translations to ensure that all documentation is in an acceptable language.

The Importance of Precise Documentation

• The approval of your HPI Visa hinges significantly on the accuracy and completeness of your documentation and information. Each document you submit serves a specific purpose, it verifies your eligibility and your commitment to complying with UK visa regulations. This meticulous approach ensures a trouble-free stay in the United Kingdom, free from legal complications.

How Our Immigration Specialists Can Help

• At AGCL Services, we possess extensive expertise in UK immigration matters, having successfully aided numerous individuals in securing their HPI Visas. Our primary objective is to ensure that you have all the requisite documents, and that your application is both comprehensive and precise. Furthermore, we provide steadfast guidance and support throughout the entire application process, simplifying the visa application procedure for your convenience.

A Seamless HPI Visa Application Journey with AGCL’s Seasoned Assistance

• At AGCL Services, we are dedicated to guiding you through every phase, ensuring a stress-free experience. Our adept team possesses comprehensive knowledge of this visa category and is fully committed to supporting you throughout the entire process. We will meticulously organize your documentation, complete your online application, and oversee the verification of your identity. Rest assured; your application will meet the stringent standards set by the UK Home Office. With our experienced advisors as your trusted companions, you can embark on the application journey with confidence, knowing that your paperwork is in capable hands. Bid farewell to anxiety and uncertainty and allow us to make your HPI Visa application journey seamless and successful.

HPI Application Processing Time

• As part of the visa application process, applicants are required to provide evidence of their identity and submit necessary documents.

Visa Decision Timeline

• Upon submission of your online application, completion of identity verification, and document submission, the timeframe for receiving a decision on your visa application varies depending on your location
  • If you are outside the UK, you can typically expect a decision within 3 weeks.
  • If you are within the UK, the decision process generally takes around 8 weeks.

Please note that these processing times are indicative, and it could be varied or take longer than standard applicable time depending on individual circumstances or due to some reasons i.e., missing documents, you may be asked to appear for interview, your criminal conviction, or they need more time to verify your documents.

Duration of Stay on the High Potential Individual (HPI) Visa

• The High Potential Individual (HPI) visa typically grants individuals permission to stay in the UK for a duration of 2 years. However, it’s noteworthy that those possessing a PhD or equivalent doctoral qualification are entitled to an extended stay of 3 years.

Extending Your Stay in the UK

• It’s essential to understand that the HPI visa cannot be extended beyond its initial duration. Yet, there is the possibility of transitioning to a different type of visa should you wish to continue your stay in the UK. For instance, you might consider applying for a Skilled Worker visa as an alternative to extending your HPI visa.

Determining Eligibility for Another Visa

• Before considering switching to another visa category, it’s crucial to assess whether you meet the criteria for an alternative visa type that aligns with your objectives for staying in the UK. Different visas come with distinct eligibility requirements, so conducting a thorough examination of your circumstances is necessary.

Please note that this is just a general overview of the visa validity and extension options. Please discuss your case with one of our experienced consultants for more information and obtain specific guidance around your case.

Financial Requirements for the High Potential Individual (HPI) Visa

• Obtaining a High Potential Individual (HPI) visa necessitates careful financial planning. When you initiate your application for this visa category, you must ensure that you have the necessary financial resources to cover various expenses.

Application Costs

• Ecctis Validation Fee: You will be required to pay £210 to Ecctis for the validation of your qualification’s authenticity. However, if you are applying from within the UK, the fee increases to £252.
• Application Fee: Additionally, there is an application fee of £822 that must be paid when submitting your visa application.
• Healthcare Surcharge: The healthcare surcharge is a vital component of the application cost. Typically, it amounts to £624 for each year you intend to stay in the UK. The exact amount will depend on your intended duration of stay
  • For a 2-year HPI visa, the healthcare surcharge will cost £1,248.
  • For a 3-year HPI visa, the healthcare surcharge will amount to £1,872.

Financial Self-Sufficiency

• Aside from the application fees and healthcare surcharge, you must demonstrate that you have the financial means to support yourself upon your arrival in the UK. Generally, you should have at least £1,270 available in your bank account to prove your financial self-sufficiency. This amount should have been consistently maintained for a continuous period of 28 days, with day 28 falling within 31 days of your visa application.
• It is crucial to provide evidence of this financial stability when applying for the HPI visa unless you have been residing in the UK under a valid visa for a minimum of 12 months. Your partner and children, if accompanying you to the UK, will also need to prove their financial self-sufficiency. The specific financial requirements for dependents may vary, so it’s essential to verify the exact amounts they need to maintain.

Potential Other Charges

• Priority Service: This service costs an additional £500 with a decision on your application within 5 working days
• Super Priority Service: It costs £1,000 with a decision on your application by the end of the next working day
  • Please note that these fees are in addition to the standard visa application fee. The Priority and Super Priority services are designed to speed up the visa application process. However, it is important to note that there is no guarantee that your application will be processed within the specified timeframe.
• Translation fees: If you need to have any documents translated into English, you will need to pay for the translation service
• Courier fees: If you need to have your passport or documents couriered to you, you will need to pay for the courier service
• English language test fees
• Tuberculosis test fees
• Medical certificate fees
• Police clearance certificate fees

Switching to the High Potential Individual (HPI) Visa in the UK

• Individuals who are already in the United Kingdom on a different type of visa may have the option to change or “switch” to a High Potential Individual (HPI) visa, provided they meet the necessary requirements.

Dependants on Different Visas

• If you decide to switch to the HPI visa, the visas of your partner or child will not automatically change to this category. They have the choice to either apply concurrently with you or at any time before the expiration of their current visa.

Travel Restrictions During the Application Process

• While your application is being processed, it is imperative that you do not travel outside of the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands, or the Isle of Man. If you leave the country during this period, your application may be withdrawn.

Application Timing

• To be eligible for switching to the HPI visa, you must apply within 5 years of receiving a qualification from an eligible university. If you are currently in the UK on a Student visa, you must also fulfil one of the following criteria
  • Have successfully completed the course you were sponsored to study.
  • Have studied for a PhD for a minimum of 24 months.

Ineligibility for Switching to the HPI Visa

• Individuals are not eligible to switch to the HPI visa if they are currently in the UK under the following visa types
  • Visit visa
  • Short-term student visa
  • Graduate visa
  • Parent of a Child Student visa
  • Seasonal worker visa
  • Domestic worker in a private household visa
  • Immigration bail
  • Granted permission to stay outside the immigration rules, typically on compassionate grounds
• Individuals falling into these categories must leave the UK and apply for an HPI visa from abroad.

Associated Fees

• Each person applying to switch to the HPI visa will be required to pay the visa application fee and the healthcare surcharge for each year of their intended stay. The specific healthcare surcharge amount varies based on the length of stay, and the individual will also need to provide biometric information (fingerprints and a photo), which does not incur an additional fee.
• For those who have been in the UK for less than 1 year, there is an additional requirement to demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to support themselves.

Processing Time for extending or switching HPI Visa

• Generally, applicants can expect to receive a decision within 8 weeks from the date of their application. However, in some cases, the processing period may be extended due to various factors such as the need for document verification, interview attendance, or personal circumstances, such as a criminal conviction.

Bringing Family Members on the High Potential Individual (HPI) Visa

• For individuals granted the High Potential Individual (HPI) visa, the opportunity often extends to their family members, who can apply to join them or remain in the UK as ‘dependants’ if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Dependant Eligibility

• If your partner or child is eligible and their application is approved, their visa will typically have the same expiration date as yours. However, in cases where parents hold visas with differing expiry dates, the child’s visa will end on the earlier date.

Dependants in this context refer to

• Your husband, wife, civil partner, or unmarried partner.
• Children under the age of 18, including those born in the UK during your stay.
• Children over 18 if they are currently in the UK as your dependants.

Requirements for Partners

• To qualify as your partner, you must provide evidence of one of the following
  • Being in a civil partnership or marriage recognized in the UK.
  • Having cohabited in a relationship for at least two years when applying.

Requirements for Children

• For your child to be eligible, they must meet certain criteria
  • They should reside with you unless they are in full-time education away from home, such as attending boarding school or university.
  • They should not be married or in a civil partnership.

Evidence of their address

• It can include items like bank statements, credit card bills, a driving license, NHS registration documents, or an official letter from their educational institution.

Financial Self-Sufficiency for Dependents

• Dependants, including your partner and children, must have a specific amount of money available to support themselves while in the UK. The required amounts are as follows
  • £285 for your partner.
  • £315 for one child.
  • £200 for each additional child.

• For instance, if you plan to bring your partner and one child to the UK, you will need a total of £600 (£285 for your partner and £315 for your child) in addition to the £1,270 required to support yourself.
• This financial stability must be maintained for at least 28 consecutive days within 31 days of your or their visa application. You usually need to provide proof of this financial capability, except if all of you have been in the UK with a valid visa for at least 12 months, or if your employer can cover your family’s costs during the initial month in the UK, confirmed on your certificate of sponsorship.

Healthcare Surcharge for Dependents

• Each family member, including dependants, is obligated to pay the healthcare surcharge. The fee for this surcharge varies based on the duration of the HPI visa
  • For a 2-year HPI visa, it will cost £1,248 for each family member.
  • For a 3-year HPI visa, it will cost £1,872 for each family member.

Application Process for Dependents

• To apply, your partner and children must complete separate applications and pay the respective visa fees. This application must be done before they travel to the UK. Additionally, they will need your application number, known as a Global Web Form (GWF) or a Unique Application Number (UAN), which you receive upon applying.

Decision Timeline

• Once the application and documents submission are complete, a decision is typically reached within 3 weeks.

Applying from Inside the UK (Switching Visa)

• If you are switching your visa category, your dependant’s current visa remains valid until its original end date. Dependents can apply to switch their visa simultaneously with you or at any time before their current visa expires, even if they turn 18 during your stay.

Ineligible Categories

• Dependants cannot apply to switch to the HPI visa if they are currently in the UK on
  • A visit visa.
  • A short-term student visa.
  • A Parent of a Child Student visa.
  • A seasonal worker visa.
  • A domestic worker in a private household visa.
  • Immigration bail.
  • Permission to stay outside the immigration rules, for compassionate reasons, for example.

• If your partner or child is on a Student visa, they can only switch if they have either completed the sponsored course or studied for a PhD for at least 24 months.

Children Born in the UK

• Children born in the UK during your stay do not automatically become British citizens. You must apply for their dependant visa if you wish to travel in and out of the UK with them.

Rights and Limitations of Dependents

• Dependants can
  • Work, with the exception of sportspersons or coaches
  • Study
  • Travel abroad and return to the UK
• However, they are generally ineligible for most public funds or the State Pension.
• In conclusion, understanding the criteria and processes for bringing family members as dependants on the High Potential Individual (HPI) visa is essential for a smooth transition to life in the UK. It allows individuals with exceptional potential to continue their work and studies in the country while ensuring their loved ones can join them in their journey.

Q-1. Can I apply for an HPI Visa if my qualification is not from a UK university?

Yes, you can apply with a qualification from a recognized institution outside the UK. However, you’ll need to obtain confirmation from Ecctis (formerly UK NARIC) that your qualification is equivalent to a UK bachelor’s, postgraduate, or PhD degree.

Q-2. What is the duration of the HPI Visa?

The HPI Visa usually lasts for 2 years. If you hold a PhD or another doctoral qualification, it can be extended for up to 3 years.

Q-3. Can I extend my HPI Visa if I want to stay longer in the UK?

No, you cannot extend your HPI Visa. However, you may be eligible to switch to a different visa category, such as a Skilled Worker Visa.

Q-4. Are there any countries whose nationals are exempt from proving English language proficiency?

Yes, nationals of countries like Antigua and Barbuda, Australia, Canada, Malta, and the USA are exempt from proving their knowledge of English.

Q-5. What documents do I need to provide when applying for an HPI Visa?

You will need a valid passport or travel document, proof of English language proficiency, and a statement from Ecctis confirming the validity of your qualification. Additional documents may be required based on your circumstances.

Q-6. Can my partner and children join me in the UK on an HPI Visa?

Yes, your partner and dependent children can apply to join you or remain in the UK as your dependents if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Q-7. What financial requirements do my partner and children need to fulfil?

Your partner and children must demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to support themselves in the UK. The required amount varies depending on their specific circumstances, and it’s crucial to provide the necessary financial evidence.

Q-8. How long does it take to receive a decision on my HPI Visa application?

You can expect a decision within 3 weeks if applying from outside the UK and within 8 weeks if applying from within the UK. However, processing times may vary depending on individual circumstances.

Q-9. Can I work and study in the UK with an HPI Visa?

With an HPI Visa, you are permitted to work in most jobs, seek employment, be self-employed, and engage in voluntary work. However, you can only study if your chosen course is not eligible for a Student Visa.

Q-10. Is it possible to settle permanently in the UK with an HPI Visa?

No, the HPI Visa does not lead to permanent settlement in the UK. It is a temporary visa category.

Q-11. Can I switch to another visa category while holding an HPI Visa?

Yes, you may be able to switch to a different visa category if you meet the eligibility criteria for that specific visa, but you cannot extend your HPI Visa.

Q-12. How can AGCL Services assist me with my HPI Visa application?

AGCL Services specializes in UK immigration matters and can provide expert guidance and support throughout your HPI Visa application process. We ensure that your application is complete, accurate, and submitted on time, reducing the risk of rejection and minimizing stress. Our experienced advisors handle the paperwork, allowing you to initiate the application with confidence, knowing your case is in capable hands.

Q-13. What am I allowed to and not allowed to do while I am on HPI Visa?

Scope of Activities on the HPI Visa: The HPI visa provides holders with a range of privileges, enabling them to

• • Engage in most forms of employment.
  • Seek employment opportunities.
  • Pursue self-employment ventures.
  • Reside in the UK with eligible partners and children.
  • Contribute to voluntary work.
  • Travel abroad and re-enter the UK as needed.

Limitations of the HPI Visa: While the HPI visa offers substantial flexibility, there are certain restrictions that applicants should be aware of. Specifically, holders of this visa cannot.

• Apply for most benefits or access public funds, including the State Pension.
• Work as professional sportspersons.
• Extend the HPI visa beyond its stipulated duration.
• Apply for permanent settlement (indefinite leave to remain) in the UK under this category.

Q-14. Do I require to submit ATAS (Academic Technology Approval Scheme) Certificate if I decide to study in the UK?

If you are involved in studies or research involving sensitive subjects, then you may require an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate. This certification is essential for those pursuing educational or research activities in areas with national security implications.

Navigating the UK immigration system can be complex hence it’s essential to have expert guidance throughout the process. At AGCL Services, our immigration experts are here to guide you through the process, ensuring that you understand visa fees, additional charges, priority services, FAQs, and the advantages of holding this visa and are committed to helping you achieve your immigration goals and ensuring a smooth and successful visa application procession for you.